The effervescent Parrot Mountain and Gardens is located just outside Pigeon Forge and is a must for families, friends, locals, and visitors. The four acres harbor hundreds of tropical birds and thousands of trees, plants, and flowers. Guests are given the opportunity to interact directly with the beautifully plumed birds, petting and feeding them in the designated area. There is even a nursery where guests are welcome to hold the baby birds. Overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains is the deck, where lunch from the deli may be enjoyed while the birds serenade. A secret garden is lush with birds flying freely and pathways that display all of the gorgeous flowers.

In the Capital of Waterparks, being the largest waterpark is quite a feat. Noah’s Ark Waterpark claims that title not only just in The Dells, but in all of America. There are over 80 family activities in a park, including activities for young children and exhilarating extreme adult slides. Enjoy the Quadzilla, The Scorpion’s Tail, Black Anaconda, Tadpole Bay Kiddie Play Area, Noah's 4-D Dive-In, 51 waterslides, 2 huge wavepools, 2 endless rivers, 4 kiddie water play areas, Flash Flood, bumper boats, arcades, gift shops, restaurants, candy store and much more. Noah's Ark Waterpark operates seasonally, so it's a good idea to check their website for the most up-to-date calendar and hours each year before planning your visit.

The Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans over 20,000 acres of striking desert terrain and rare wildlife. This unique habitat is home to wonders like the endangered Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, perfectly adapted to its sandy, shifting environment. At Thousand Palm Oasis—nourished by the San Andreas Fault—towering fan palms create a surprising, shaded escape that feels like another world within the desert. Scenic trails weave through these fascinating landscapes, inviting visitors to discover one of California’s most distinctive desert ecosystems.